Russia allocates US$ 1 mln to UNDP in 2017 for humanitarian relief to Cuba in the wake of Hurricane Matthew

Feb 7, 2017

Russia allocates US$ 1 mln to UNDP in 2017 for humanitarian relief to Cuba in the wake of Hurricane Matthew. Photo: Granma

As part of the country’s contribution to international relief efforts in Cuba following the destructive Hurricane Matthew, the Government of the Russian Federation has decided to co-finance the construction, water supply and sanitation projects of the UNDP (up to US$ 1 million) and UNICEF (up to US$ 500,000) in the Republic of Cuba.

UNDP is removing debris from the affected areas and rebuilding the infrastructure. It plans to launch the production of construction materials from the debris collected locally, which will not only help utilise the debris and produce the necessary construction materials for rebuilding housing, but will also create jobs and provide livelihood to the local population.

UNICEF is helping out with water purification including fresh water for healthcare facilities. Efforts are underway to restore sanitation standards in residential housing and social facilities. In all, over 300,000 people in the affected areas will be covered by water supply and sanitation projects.

The decision to help Cuba has been taken in the framework of Russia’s policy of assistance to international development. We hope that Russian support will help strengthen Russian-Cuban relations and partnership with the UN development agencies.